AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani has been voted the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Coach of the Month for December 2025 following an impressive run in the FKF Premier League.
Ambani steered Ingwe to the summit of the league table after 14 matches in the 2025/26 campaign, cementing their status as early title contenders.
During the award period, the former Leopards midfielder led his side to three victories and one draw, delivering consistent performances that underlined the club’s resurgence.
The highlight of the month came in the Mashemeji Derby, where Leopards shocked arch-rivals Gor Mahia with a narrow 1-0 win to claim local bragging rights. Further victories followed against Ulinzi Stars, whom they beat 2-1, and Bidco United, edged out 1-0.
Leopards’ only slip came against defending champions Kenya Police, with the contest ending in a goalless draw.
Ambani beat stiff competition for the accolade, with several coaches across different sports also nominated. NCPB handball coach Bryan Mathews earned recognition after guiding his team to the top of the Kenya Handball Federation league with wins over Kisiwa National Polytechnic and Equity.
Basketball coach Zadock Adika was also shortlisted following his side’s bronze medal finish at the FIBA 3×3 Africa Cup 2025 in Madagascar. Athletics coach Victor Ng’ani made the list after leading Kenya to the top of the standings at the Africa Youth Championships with a haul of four gold, two silver and four bronze medals.
Team Kenya coach Evans Owino was nominated as well after overseeing the country’s seventh-place finish at the 2025 Africa Youth Championships in Angola.
In volleyball, DCI women’s head coach Patrick Sang earned a nod after ending the year at the top of the league following victories over Nairobi Prisons, Kenyatta University and Young Spykers. Rugby coach Simon Jawichire of Catholic Monks was also in contention after his side won all three opening fixtures to lead the second-tier standings with 15 points.
An elated Ambani dedicated the award to his players, praising their commitment and ambition. “I am thrilled to receive this recognition,” he said. “It reflects the effort and unity within the team. We are motivated and looking forward to pushing for the league title in the new year.”
SJAK president James Waindi lauded Ambani’s achievement, describing it as a testament to his impact on Kenyan football. “Coach Ambani’s success is an inspiration to former players aspiring to transition into coaching. His work at AFC Leopards has been exceptional, and this award is well deserved,” Waindi stated.